Bella and the Bulldogs” is an American teen sitcom that aired on Nickelodeon from 2015 to 2016. The show follows Bella Dawson, a high school cheerleader who unexpectedly becomes the quarterback of her school’s football team, blending her cheerleading background with her new role as the leader of a boys’ football team. The series is known for its humor, sports themes, and positive messages about breaking stereotypes. Here’s a look at the main cast, their ages at the time of filming, and some fun trivia about the show.
Main Cast and Their Ages
- Brec Bassinger as Bella Dawson
- Age during filming: Brec Bassinger was born on May 25, 2000, making her 15 years old when she played Bella Dawson on the show.
- Trivia: Brec Bassinger is best known for her role as Bella, but she also starred as the title character in DC’s Stargirl on The CW, where she plays Courtney Whitmore. Brec was a cheerleader in real life, which helped her portray Bella’s character authentically.
- Jackie Radinsky as Sophie Dixon
- Age during filming: Jackie Radinsky was born on July 17, 1999, making her 16 years old when she played Sophie, Bella’s best friend.
- Trivia: Jackie is known for her comedic timing and has also appeared in various other TV roles. In Bella and the Bulldogs, Sophie is a cheerleader who is supportive of Bella’s transition from cheerleader to football star.
- Coy Stewart as Tanner
- Age during filming: Coy Stewart was born on June 24, 1998, making him 17 years old during the filming of the show.
- Trivia: Coy Stewart is a talented actor and musician, having appeared in numerous TV series, including The Haunted Hathaways on Nickelodeon. Tanner is a football player and one of Bella’s close friends who helps her adjust to her new role as the team’s quarterback.
- Buddy Handleson as Hendrix
- Age during filming: Buddy Handleson was born on December 1, 1997, making him 17 or 18 years old when he played Hendrix.
- Trivia: Buddy Handleson is known for his role in Bella and the Bulldogs, but he has also appeared in shows like The Haunted Hathaways and Raising Hope. Hendrix is a goofy, laid-back player on the football team and provides much of the show’s comedic relief.
- Lilimar as Isabella “Izzy”
- Age during filming: Lilimar was born on June 2, 2000, making her 15 or 16 years old during the show’s filming.
- Trivia: Lilimar played Izzy, a friend and fellow football team member, known for being a tough yet supportive character. After Bella and the Bulldogs, Lilimar continued to pursue acting and appeared in Knight Squad and The Loud House.
- Rio Mangini as Ace McFumbles
- Age during filming: Rio Mangini was born on October 6, 2002, making him 13 years old when he played the football player Ace.
- Trivia: Rio Mangini, a talented young actor, is known for his roles in The Secret Life of an American Teenager and The Babysitter: Killer Queen. In Bella and the Bulldogs, Ace is the overly confident, sometimes arrogant quarterback before Bella takes over.
Fun Trivia
- Breaking Stereotypes: The show’s premise was all about breaking stereotypes, with Bella—a girl—becoming the quarterback of the boys’ football team. This empowering message resonated with many viewers and was praised for challenging traditional gender roles in sports.
- Filming Locations: The series was filmed in Los Angeles, California, and used a mix of sets, including a high school football field and locker room, to create the authentic feel of a high school sports team.
- Cheerleader Turned Quarterback: Brec Bassinger’s character Bella was originally a cheerleader who had to transition to the football field. Basinger herself was a cheerleader in high school, which helped her portray the role convincingly.
- Diverse Characters: The show featured a diverse cast, which added to its charm and appeal. The characters came from different backgrounds, and this helped to introduce a range of experiences and perspectives into the story.
- Cancellation After Two Seasons: Despite its early success, Bella and the Bulldogs was canceled after two seasons, leaving fans disappointed. However, the show gained a loyal fanbase and continues to be loved by many viewers, particularly for its positive messages about friendship, teamwork, and empowerment.
- Music in the Show: The show featured a variety of popular songs, often during scenes of football games or important team moments, helping to create a fun and energetic atmosphere. Some of the songs were performed by the cast themselves, adding another layer of entertainment.
“Bella and the Bulldogs” may have only run for two seasons, but its impact on fans remains significant. With a cast of talented young actors who embodied their characters with charm and humor, the show successfully blended sports with teen comedy and empowerment. The diverse cast, combined with the fun and lighthearted tone, continues to make the show a fan favorite among those who appreciate sports, friendship, and breaking down barriers.
